glomeromycetami

Glomeromycotina is a taxonomic subdivision within the fungal kingdom, specifically within the phylum Glomeromycota. Fungi within this group are characterized by their obligate symbiotic relationship with plant roots, forming arbuscular mycorrhizae. This means they cannot complete their life cycle without a host plant and vice versa. The hyphae of glomeromycotan fungi colonize the root cortex, forming specialized structures called arbuscules where nutrient exchange takes place. Plants provide the fungi with carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis, while the fungi enhance the plant's uptake of essential minerals, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, from the soil. This mutualistic association is ancient and widespread, occurring in an estimated 80% of terrestrial plant species. Glomeromycotan fungi are typically aseptate (lacking cross-walls) in their vegetative hyphae and reproduce asexually through the formation of large, often multinucleate spores. These spores can be found in the soil and are crucial for the dispersal and survival of the fungi. Their ecological significance is profound, playing a vital role in nutrient cycling and soil health, and supporting the growth and survival of most plant communities on Earth.